Wednesday’s News & Ideas - 10/15/2025

Aid to Gaza resumes, with UN and established faith-based agencies leading the way
Religion News Service: President Trump’s peace plan does not mention the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, a private entity created by the US and Israel to circumvent the United Nations.

As Gaza ceasefire takes hold, Vatican seeks to mend strained ties with Jewish leaders
Religion News Service: Pope Leo XIV has pledged to rebuild trust with the Jewish community, but a top cardinal’s reference to Israel’s offensive as a “massacre” has reopened wounds.

Dallin H. Oaks, former Utah Supreme Court justice, is selected to lead Mormon church
The Associated Press: Experts are doubtful Oaks will pivot sharply from Nelson’s approach to leadership because he was one of Nelson’s closest advisers.

‘Catholicism is reinventing itself’: Brazilians waking at 4am to stream prayers
The Guardian: There is a growing habit of rising early for livestreams, suggesting Brazil is a testing ground for religious influencers.

Fading from the pews: The departure of older church members
Religion Unplugged: There is another exodus taking place in our churches, one that rarely makes the headlines and seldom finds its way into our strategy sessions. It is the quiet departure of senior adults.

The Spark

Israeli media’s distorted view of the war in Gaza
While global news showed a humanitarian disaster, most outlets* in Israel remained silent, Mother Jones says.

*access is limited for nonsubscribers